POPPY appeal organisers in Northallerton are launching their 2015 fundraising with a series of coffee mornings and a special show of “Wartime Memories” to try and increase takings.

More than £19,000 was raised last year, one of the biggest amounts they have had, and this year organiser Ruby Davison said they are aiming for more than £20,000.

Mrs Davison is appealing for anyone who can help to come forward.

Coffee mornings are being held in Northallerton Town Hall on Saturday, October 31, Wednesday, November 4 and Saturday, November 7, when organisations and individuals can collect poppy wreaths, poppies, pins and crosses. Collection and delivery can also be arranged through Mrs Davison on 01609 761901.

A special concert is being held in aid of the Poppy Appeal and Help for Heroes at Northallerton Forum on Saturday, November 7.

Northallerton Amateur Variety Company is working with the Sarah Louise School of Dance and Thirsk Royal British Legion band to stage the show. Tickets are available through Mrs Davison or from the Forum.

Mrs Davison said: "It promises to be a memorable evening, we can’t thank everyone who is taking part enough for their time and effort. This is such an important charity we really do appeal to people to get involved and to give.

“People often don’t realise how much the Royal British Legion does to help wounded and injured men and women coming back from conflicts, and of course supporting relatives, it is an essential service.

"Over 170 boxes have been put out in shops, schools and businesses already, we are having street collections on October 31 and November 4 and any help would be really appreciated.”